Eleanor F. Fry

Eleanor Fry passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025, at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and family traditions that will live on for generations.

On Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1959, Eleanor married the love of her life, Donald Fry. Their time together was filled with joy and devotion, but tragically, Donald passed away in 1971. In the years that followed, Eleanor gracefully shouldered the role of both mother and father to her sons, Donald (Kimberly) and Christopher—a responsibility she carried out with strength, resilience, and endless love.

To her grandchildren—Dominique Seychel Fry Casey (John), Tatum Louise Fry, Palmer Donald Fry, and Thatcher M. Fry—she was “Tutu,” the grandmother who always had time for a hug, a story, or a game. Her great-grandson, John Robert Casey IV, brought her heart immeasurable joy in her later years.

Eleanor grew up surrounded by a big, lively family. She was a cherished sister to Francis (Joan), Eileen, and Edna, and was reunited in heaven with her late siblings Carol, Richard, and David. To her many nieces and nephews, she was “Aunt El,” the fun-loving Aunt who never failed to make them feel special. She was also a loyal friend—someone who made a room brighter just by walking into it.

Her happiest moments were often spent around a table—playing cards, dominoes, or mahjong, where her quick wit and competitive spirit always shone. Eleanor loved her years as a resident of The Villages in Florida, and she treasured her time with dear friends at the OPPO Boat & Ski Club at Bass Lake, Indiana, where laughter and community were always abundant.

Eleanor’s life will be celebrated on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Palos Community Church (formerly known as Palos Presbyterian Community Church) at 11:00am.

Family and friends will gather not only to mourn her passing, but to honor the love, humor, and joy she gave so freely.

She leaves behind a family who will forever be grateful for her strength, her kindness, and her unwavering devotion.